There was a time when performing artists would not readily admit to suffering from stage fright, or performance anxiety. They kept this to themselves so they could maintain the illusion of supreme confidence and command on stage. Nowadays, the subject is much more out in the open and players are less afraid (and less ashamed) to talk about how nerves affect them. Actually, it seems there is an industry that has arisen around performance psychology, with excellent books, blogs, courses and workshops.
I am presently writing the 4th and final part of my ebook series, which will be dedicated to performance. I am planning to devote a whole volume to the subject of performance anxiety – its roots and causes, its effects and (most importantly) the various ways of dealing with it. I am confident I will be able to offer a variety of different ways of handling anxiety, from the holistic to the pharmaceutical.
As part of my research, I have devised a short (very short, actually) survey – Performance Anxiety among Pianists, the results of which I will collate and include in the publication. I would be most grateful if you would take two or three minutes to complete the survey. It really is very brief, and you will be completely anonymous. Whether you are a professional pianist, a piano student or play for your own pleasure your opinion and comments count.
Let me thank you very much indeed in advance for your time and input!
Looking forward to the 4th part of you ebooks, Graham. Between you and me I do not think that there has ever been a performer of any sort who would not honestly admit that he/she experience some form of anxiety. I think that it is a matter of degree of anxiety. Some people (I think even Chopin) are crippled by it, though.
Hello Len. I know a few who actually manage to turn fear into excitement and relish the act of performance. But you’re right, most performers do suffer anxiety to some extent.